XTotal Pay combines base annual salary or hourly wage, bonuses, profit sharing, tips, commissions, overtime pay and other forms of cash earnings, as applicable for this job. It does not include equity (stock) compensation, cash value of retirement benefits, or the value of other non-cash benefits (e.g. healthcare).

XTotal Pay combines base annual salary or hourly wage, bonuses, profit sharing, tips, commissions, overtime pay and other forms of cash earnings, as applicable for this job. It does not include equity (stock) compensation, cash value of retirement benefits, or the value of other non-cash benefits (e.g. healthcare).

Job Description for Payroll Director

The payroll director oversees payroll, payroll accounting, and payroll tax for their company. The payroll director may oversee other payroll employees and be entrusted with hiring duties. Additionally, the payroll manager may perform external and internal audits related to payroll, making sure that the payroll department is adhering to company and legal standards. They may help automate payroll processes, upgrade payroll software, and correct any payroll problems as well. Problem solving is an important skill in this position, as the payroll director helps evaluate and improve payroll processes as needed. When employees have issues with the payroll administration, the payroll director should be able to determine reasons for the problem, correct any related mistakes, and ensure that they do not reoccur.

This position may also include duties relating to administering bonuses, termination benefits, contribution calculations, employee benefits, and 401(K) benefits. Recordkeeping is another important part of the job, including maintaining documents relating to payroll. The payroll director needs to be able to prepare concise, complete payroll reports and coordinate effectively with other departments within the company such as finance, human resources, legal, and compensation.

A bachelor’s degree is generally required for this position, as well as experience in related positions. Proficiency in basic computer programs - especially those related to payroll administration - is essential; for many positions, experience with Workday is specifically preferred. Certification as a payroll professional may be needed as well. This is generally a full-time position that takes place during regular business hours, although overtime may occasionally be required depending on the needs of the business.

Payroll Director Tasks

Manage the overall corporate payroll functions including, payroll processing, payroll taxes, reviewing and revising policies and procedures, as well as internal controls, system review and upgrade.

Maintain necessary vendor relationships and compliance.

Ensure payroll tax payments are in compliance with applicable federal, state and local tax laws.